UCF may serve as a mass COVID-19 vaccination site in the spring, and the university will encourage students, faculty and staff to get vaccinated in the interest of UCF’s health and safety.
Dr. Michael Deichen, associate vice president of UCF Student Health Services, said it is encouraging that multiple COVID-19 vaccine candidates are demonstrating high effectivity but that must not stop UCF’s efforts to spreading the virus during the holiday season.
“Decisions about timelines, prioritization and the type of vaccine will be made by the state of Florida,” Deichen said. “Due to limited supply, we can expect a scaled approach that will first prioritize the most vulnerable and those working in high-risk areas, followed by wider availability.
Deichen said while the plan for distribution is under development, it is important to understand that the vaccine is intended to teach the immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus. He said sometimes this process can cause symptoms — such as fever — which are normal in the short-term and a sign of building immunity.
“It typically takes time for the body to build immunity after vaccination, which means it is possible to get COVID-19 just after vaccination because the vaccine has not had enough time to provide protection,” Deichen said.
Deichen said people who have already had COVID-19 will still be advised to get a vaccine because public health experts do not yet know how long someone is protected from getting sick again.
“While a vaccine gives us great hope, there will not be an immediate flip of the switch back to our pre-COVID lives,” he said. “The leading vaccine contenders require two shots at least three weeks apart.”
Deichen said masks, physical distancing and other health precautions will be necessary until enough people are vaccinated to significantly suppress community infections.
Deichen said as SHS prepares to provide the vaccine to members of the campus community — in collaboration with public health officials and partners from across UCF — the university needs everyone to continue to Armor Up.
He said if an individual has concerns about exposure to stay away from others and get tested.
Deichen said COVID-19 testing is readily available across Central Florida and continues to be offered at UCF in Garage A, with most insurers covering costs.
To request testing, students and employees should call the UCF COVID Line at 407-823-2509.
The CDC is sharing more information about COVID-19 vaccines, and UCF will provide updates about our campus vaccine program when the university has new information to share.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
